Lead Day

Now for something completely different.

Florescent light shines overhead as I step into the room.

Upbeat music plays throughout the gym speakers.

Excitement and anxiety builds as I place my gear onto the mat.

Muscle memory guides my hands to form figure 8s on the rope to tie in.

My belayer checks the knots and we're ready to go.

Hands on holds, legs raise me up, finding my rhythm.

Breathe in, breathe out.

It’s onward and upward as I climb.

I lift my rope; fingers wrap around the quickdraw and clip in.

“Click!” The sound of success and relief.

Sending I shall be today.